Este Castle – an unmissable stop in Ferrara

History and description

Built in the late 14th century by order of the Marquis of Ferrara, Niccolò II d’Este, with the purpose of defending against popular uprisings, the castle later became a noble residence and the center of the family’s power, as demonstrated by its fresco decorations and numerous renovations. Characterized by a square plan with four towers—including the prominent Torre dei Leoni—it also features several inner courtyards, halls, and prisons. The fortress is surrounded by a water-filled moat, which, as usual, can be crossed via a drawbridge.

Curiosities

At once a defensive stronghold and a residential palace, the castle’s fame is also tied to the tragic story of Niccolò III d’Este’s wife, who, having fallen in love with her stepson, was executed together with him—an event that inspired numerous literary and theatrical works.

Access

The castle is accessible, with mandatory reservation, at the price of €12, excluding certain reductions and designated free entry days.

How to reach it

It can be reached from Bologna by car via the A13 motorway toward Ferrara, or by train. Once in Ferrara, visitors can use city bus lines or cycle paths.

A monument halfway between residential palace and defensive fortress, the Este Castle is an unmissable stop to discover all the beauties of Ferrara and to immerse yourself in its timeless history and culture!

Cover photo credits: trabantos